Geisinger offers Botox to people with involuntary muscle spasm problems

DANVILLE – Geisinger neurologists now use Botox to reduce spasms and ease pain associated with involuntary muscle movement problems.

About 300,000 people in the U.S. suffer from some form of dystonia, a movement disorder that results in involuntary muscle contractions and can involve the face, neck, voice, trunk, and limbs.

Injecting small amounts of Botox (botulinum toxin) can block overactive nerve impulses that cause excessive muscle contractions. Botox injections can last for up to three months and can be repeated if necessary.

Although people normally associate Botox with cosmetics procedures and smoothing wrinkles, the drug is being increasingly used to treat dystonias, including blepharospasm, torticollis, and writer’s cramp, said Geisinger Wyoming Valley neurologist Kelly Condefer, MD.

“Botox injections also help people with spasticity due to stroke or cerebral palsy,” Dr. Condefer said. “This is a safe, non-invasive treatment for these neurological problems.”

Condefer specializes in movement disorders, and fellow neurologist Scott Friedenberg, MD of Geisinger Medical Center specializes in muscle disorders. Both physicians use Botox as a treatment.